Struggling Darien Group Seeks City Relief

DARIEN, IL – The Darien Chamber of Commerce is asking the city to stop requiring it to pay for police protection during DarienFest.

In a letter last week, April Padalik, the chamber's executive director, asked the city to end the longtime policy.

"This Chamber has struggled to exist, especially during our recent pandemic," Padalik said.

The group's operating spending is covered through membership fees and fundraising events that are held to promote local businesses and help bring tourists to Darien, she said.

"We know that many other chambers are not charged for community events because of the community benefits," Padalik said.

Upon removal of the reimbursement requirement, the chamber would be open to a possible donation to the city or the creation of scholarships for local high school students, Padalik said.

DarienFest brings exposure to Darien businesses, ultimately bringing in more sales taxes to the city, she said.

The group also donates free space to nonprofits, including the local Rotary club, Darien VFW Memorial Post 2838, Darien Lions Club, Darien Women's Club, St. John Lutheran Church and Lord of Life Church.

The city administration is recommending Darien continue with a reimbursement agreement. The fees are on a sliding scale based on the Darien chamber's net profits from Darien Fest.

If the fest makes less than $20,000 in profits, the group would only need to reimburse 15 percent of the city's expenses. If the event reaches $100,000 in profits, it must pay 100 percent of city costs.

The City Council is set to consider the reimbursement agreement Monday.

This year's Darien Fest is set for Aug. 11 through Aug. 14 at Q Bar, 8109 Cass Ave.